Health Care
I believe that West Virginians deserve access to affordable health care services and I have long fought to help ensure that they have such access, especially in underserved areas of southern West Virginia.
We must strengthen Federal investments in community health centers that provide primary and preventive care in rural regions, along with programs that bring health care providers to underserved areas. I also believe we must update Medicare rules in order to expand health care services and the role of health care providers where doctors are in short supply.
I am proud to support legislation that would promote wellness and preventive care programs -- increasing access to vaccinations and regular doctor visits, screenings for chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer – all designed to help us live healthier and keep our medical costs down. I support our West Virginia schools developing curriculum in health, warning about the dangers of drugs and alcohol and providing physical education as well as more nutritious meals to help our young people lead long, healthy, productive lives. We also need to be sure we have appropriate mental health services and treatment services for those struggling with mental illness or behavior health.
For years, I have been active and vocal in supporting legislation that would help to root out the causes of afflictions such as autism spectrum disorders and Alzheimer's, in order to help families, schools, caregivers, and the medical community to find the best care and treatment options. Our loved ones deserve the best care possible.
I am also fighting hard against efforts to end traditional Medicare and the guaranteed benefits promised to seniors, as well as to ensure that our Nation’s veterans and their families receive the health care benefits that they have earned.
At issue is addressing the basic human need for quality health care and marshalling our resources as a nation to meet that need.